Ch. 11..20

Chapter 11

The Duke Of Monaco

Mia was meeting a client with a very prestigious background, hailing from the royal family. Alexander Montecarlo, the Duke of Monaco, had recently purchased a huge mansion in Paris and desired it to be decorated by the renowned interior designer Mia Peterson herself, rather than one of her assistants. Hence, he sought assurance and wanted to meet Mia personally. Mia couldn't refuse the request of a member of the royal family and felt obliged to accommodate the meeting in her office, even though it fell outside her usual working hours.

Mia arrived early and ensured all the arrangements were in place. Although she didn't seek recognition, she believed that this business collaboration with the royal family would elevate her firm to new heights. If the Duke himself praised her work, there would be no one to rival her fame and success.

Ever ambitious, Mia was determined not to miss this opportunity. She had worked tirelessly to earn her reputation, and now it was time to prove her worth in the interior design industry. She had endured a lifetime of hardship, growing up as an orphan and then marrying a devil mafia who treated her terribly. But now, her focus was on giving her children the world and proving her worth. She was determined to make her children proud of their mother.

She glanced at her assistant, Emily, who nodded confidently, confirming that everything was ready.

As the clock struck four in the afternoon, the gate swung open, and the Duke's bodyguards. entered, followed by Duke Alexander Montecarlo. He strode in, his presence commanding and intimidating, clad in an exceptionally expensive black suit. "Your Highness!" Mia greeted him with a smile.

"Miss Peterson, it's an honor to finally meet you," the Duke's voice carried a taunting edge, a reminder of Mia's two previous cancellations due to her children's school performances.

"I sincerely apologize for the last two times. It was an urgent matter. Otherwise, who would decline an appointment with the Duke of Monaco?" Mia replied hesitantly.

"Ah, I was just kidding. I was told you had a family commitment that couldn't be postponed. I'm also a family man, Miss Peterson, so I understand," the Duke waved off her apology carelessly as he took a seat and gestured for Mia to sit as well.

The arrangement featured a comfortable, lavish sofa, creating a casual yet professional atmosphere, with a projector and screen on the front wall to add a touch of business. formality.

Mia was taken aback by his politeness. She had expected the Duke to be an arrogant, order- barking jerk, but he was different.

The Duke Of Monaco

So, can we start with the presentation?" Mia askel hesitantly as tea and snacks were served before the Duke. He nodded, gesturing for her to begin.

"These are some designs," Mia began, "and I will elaborate on their details to transform your newly bought house into a comfortable home, incorporating the latest smart technology." One by one, she explained the details and changed the slides on the screen. The Duke seemed very intrigued and impressed, listening carefully to everything she described. After the presentation was over, they discussed and decided on the best plan for designing the Duke's new home in Paris.

"By the way, may I ask you a personal question?" Mia asked, her curiosity getting the better of

her.

"Yes. Miss Peterson, you may ask anything." Alexander replied in an amused tone.

"I've heard you're traveling around the world and buying houses because you are looking for your long-lost sister. Is that...." Mia hesitated, "umm... true?"

The Duke's demeanor shifted as he took a deep breath.

"That's right. I am looking for my sister. She was abducted shortly after she was born. My mother still cries at the memory of her. She didn't even get to hold her; my father's mistress, consumed by jealousy, took the baby away," the Duke explained. Mia's eyes widened in shock. How could someone be so cruel as to take revenge using a newborn baby? Her heart ached, wondering how the royal princess had survived and if she was still alive. She couldn't muster the courage to voice her doubts. "By the way, do you also belong to some royal family, Ms. Peterson?" the Duke asked suddenly, catching Mia off guard.

"No," she replied with a snort. "I am not of royal blood." She shook her head, thinking the Duke must be flirting with her. But she preferred to keep things strictly professional.

"That's strange. You seem quite familiar. Even our vibes match so well," the Duke said, watching Mia's face intently.

Mia felt awkward under his intense gaze and averted her eyes, whispering, "Your Highness, those lines might have worked on most women, but I'd prefer to keep our relationship strictly professional."

"Oh, no! Ms. Peterson, you misunderstood me, Alexander affirmed quickly. "I was just curious because it feels like I've seen you before. Where are you from?" he asked again, his voice tinged with impatience.

Mia didn't want anyone to know she was an orphan because it might reveal her past and expose that she was once married to mafia don Alessandro. She didn't need any more trouble

in her life; she was better off without him.

"My family has always lived in Paris, so I belong here," she lied, hoping to prevent the Duke from asking more about her past. To change the subject, she stood up and said, "Your Highness, I will keep you updated on everything, and my assistant will handle all the formalities. Please excuse me, as I have another appointment."

"That's fine. Thank you, Miss Peterson," the Duke replied, rising and extending his hand for a handshake. Mia took his hand and shook it professionally, but she felt something was off by the

way the Duke continued to look at her.

She was accustomed to men hitting on her, and as a single woman, she knew she had to endure such advances. However, she was determined not to let anything interfere with her work and success. These were small obstacles, and she was more than capable of overcoming them.

Chapter 12

My Heart Is Restless

Mia hurried out of her office, her heels clicking against the polished marble floor, while Emily followed closely behind, clutching a notepad.

"Ma'am, Miss Vanessa is insisting on having an appointment," Emily informed her, a note of urgency in her voice.

Mia winced at the mention of the supermodel. The news of Alessandro getting engaged to Vanessa had been all over the tabloids. But she couldn't help but laugh mockingly at her destiny when she saw the news. Mia knew Alessandro had only wanted Aria to vanish from his life so he could be with the love of his life.

Yet, when Alessandro bought a new apartment in Paris for Vanessa, Vanessa had insisted it be designed by the renowned Mia Peterson. However, Mia knew better than to work for the fiancée of her cruel husband and reveal her identity. She had been making excuses to avoid working for Vanessa, but Vanessa was persistent, determined to have Mia at any cost.

"Tell her we are fully booked and not taking any bookings for the next two years," Mia said, hoping this would deter Vanessa from wanting her services.

"I told her, ma'am, but Miss Vanessa wasn't ready to listen and insisted on meeting you," Emily hesitated before continuing. "Actually, I've just been informed that she's come to our office and is heading to meet you despite the security guards attempts to stop her." "Shit!" Mia cursed under her breath.

This was bad. Really bad. The last thing Mia wanted was to meet Vanessa. Though no one in Alessandro's circle had ever seen or recognized her-since Alessandro had never made Aria's public appearance-she still feared her identity could be revealed by some other means. The last thing she wanted was trouble in her comfortable life.

"Tell her I'm not here. Tell her I'm out of town. Mia mumbled as she hurried towards the elevator. "No, tell her I'm out of the country and won't return for an unknown period." She kept mumbling, striding through her crowded office.

It was a busy day, and all her staff and designers were working diligently. Mia continued to give instructions to her assistant who was trailing behind her. She had been looking over her shoulder and didn't realize the elevator doors had opened. Alessandro stepped out of it, his bodyguards flanking him, with Vanessa clinging to his side.

Alessandro stood there indifferently, his cold blue eyes fixed ahead. He exuded an aura of complete dominance and intimidation, demanding attention. All heads turned towards him, looking at him with awe. Vanessa clung closer as they walked directly to the reception desk.

Meanwhile, Mia and Alessandro approached from opposite directions, their paths unknowingly converging. Time seemed to slow as they passed each other, separated only by

a few staff members.

Mia was in such a rush that she hurried into the elevator just before it descended again, while Alessandro stopped at the reception desk. Standing inside the elevator, Mia swiftly pressed. the button for the first floor. Just then, one of Alessandro's bodyguards shifted slightly, and Mia caught a glimpse of Alessandro's back, which she intriguingly found very familiar.

As the doors of the elevator began to close, Alessandro felt an intense gaze on him and suddenly turned his head. But the elevator doors had already shut, leaving him staring at cold, unyielding steel. His restless eyes scanned the surroundings, searching for anything that might have captured his interest. Finding nothing, he dismissed it as a trick of his mind and turned to face the receptionist, fixing her with an intimidating stare that demanded immediate answers. "Sir, ma'am, I'm telling you honestly. Mise

Peterson has been out of the country due to work, and we don't have information on when she'll be back, the receptionist answered nervously, swallowing hard.

Despite his alluring personality and charming appearance, the cold aura and dominating presence of Alessandro were terrifying. He was called the cruelest and most ruthless mafia king for a reason. Bullshit!" Vanessa scowled. "One of my friends said she saw her at a recent

event."

"She... she might have attended a business party. But we weren't informed," the receptionist tried to cover confidently but failed, stammering under Alessandro's angry glare.

"Listen to me, and listen very carefully. Tell your boss that no one has ever refused Alessandro Valentino. If she's so arrogant, she needs to understand there are severe consequences for messing with me. So, I'm giving her one last chance to correct her mistakes. and offer an apology before I'm forced to have my way," he growled so lowly that a chill ran through the spine of everyone standing near him.

The receptionist's eyes widened with fear and her throat felt dry as she struggled to find words, managing only a nod in agreement.

"Let's go,

Vanessa!" Alessandro's intimidating command cut through the air.

"But..." Vanessa's whine trailed off when she saw Alessandro glaring at her with frustration.

She had hoped Alessandro would display more cruelty, which was why she had pestered him to accompany her. But she was disappointed that Alessandro let them go with only a threat.

However, as she caught sight of Alessandro's sour mood and angry stare, she knew better than to provoke him further. She understood that her schemes could backfire if she pushed him too far.

As Alessandro left Mia's office, a strange restlessness crept over him as if something crucial was missing, and the unease in his heart only intensified. It all started with encountering those adorable twins at the mall; the boy bore an uncanny resemblance to him. He tried

brush it off as mere coincidence, but now, in the interior designer's office, he felt as though. he might find answers to his questions here only. Though he couldn't quite understand how.

Taking a deep breath, he cast another observant gaze over the staff and surroundings but found nothing. He concluded that he was simply overwhelmed and in need of a break, but deep down, he knew that throwing himself into work was the only thing keeping him from unraveling completely since Aria's departure. Without it, he didn't dare to imagine where he might be.

Chapter 13

My Wife

As the elevator descended to the first floor of her office building, Mia stepped out and rushed. toward the parking lot. Sliding into her car, she finally took a deep breath of relief before. driving home.

She parked her car and ascended the building's elevator to her luxurious apartment on the highest floor of the skyscraper, the 50th floor, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline. A genuine smile spread across her face in eager anticipation of seeing her children. They were her rock, her reason for everything, and the thought of embracing them after a long day filled her heart with genuine happiness.

Unbeknownst to her, another discussion was unfolding at her home. Adam and the twins had already arrived, setting the dining table with takeout and waiting for Mia to join them for dinner.

"That man looked exactly like Maximo," Gia mused while placing the plates on the table.

"Don't compare me with that bad guy," Maximo groaned.

"But he wasn't bad; he bought us the gown and saved me from falling," Gia defended, clearly smitten by the handsome stranger she met at the mall.

"But it's weird how he resembles Maximo so much," Adam thought aloud. Just then, they heard the main door open.

"It seems Mom's home," Maximo grinned, darting up to see her.

"Wait, Maximo, Gia! Don't tell your mom what happened today at the mall. She'll worry," Adam instructed. In reality, he feared Mia would lose trust in him with her kids and never allow them to go out with him again if she knew what had happened.

Gia and Maximo nodded in agreement before they all headed towards the entrance, where they found Mia setting her keys and bag on the counter adjacent to the corridor connecting the entrance to the hallway..

"Mom!" The twins ran to embrace her as Mia grinned, squatting on the ground to hug her precious children.

"Had fun with your favorite movie star, huh?" Mia teased as she kissed her children's cheeks.

"We had lots of fun. We watched a movie and had lunch in a Michelin-starred restaurant," Maximo began to recount, and Mia was intrigued to listen more when she noticed Adam looking at them with an amused smile that seemed purely content and happy. He walked toward her and kissed her forehead.

"Welcome home," he whispered, not wanting to interrupt Maximo and Gia, who were

reciating their outing with enthusiasm.

Mis's heart warmed. She had always wished for happy family like this, but when she thought about her marriage, her nightmares seemed to return, making her take a step away from Adam

"Alexandro. I just found out that that fucking interior designer lied about not being in the country. She'there, in town, and one of my sources confirmed it," Vanessa gritted her teeth, standing before Alessandro in his office. He was still working, seemingly disinterested in her words

Vanessa's fury simmered. How dare someone offend her like this? After all, she was Alessandro Valentino's fiancée, the wealthiest man in the country, and the formidable Mafia boss. She was accustomed to having everyone cater to her every whim.

But to her disappointment, Alessandro's response was dismissive.

"Leave that designer, Vanessa. I don't have time for your petty games. Find another designer and get the job done," he spoke coldly.

Vanessa refused to relent.

"No, I want it done by Mia Peterson. It's about my reputation, Alessandro. I've already boasted to my friends that Mia Peterson will personally design our home. You promised it would be our wedding gift," she insisted, her voice laced with sensuality as she wrapped her slender arms around Alessandro's neck. However, he frowned and immediately removed her

arms.

"Do whatever you want, but don't expect me to accompany you again. My time is very precious," Alessandro mumbled indifferently, his attention still fixed on the document before him.

Vanessa's frustration boiled over at the thought of the arrogant interior designer and her voice tinged with bitterness. "That's fine. I'll take your people with me to teach that woman a lesson for messing with me. Then she'll have no choice but to work for us." Alessandro remained silent, his focus unwavering on the document in front of him. He didn't care about Vanessa's plans. He simply wanted her to leave him alone and let him work in

peace

The next day, Mia left home for her office, but she never made it there. She was abducted by Alessandro's associates, acting on Vanessa's instructions.

They whisked her away to the dungeon of the mafia headquarters, where they subjected her to a brutal beating until her cries turned into sobs. Drenched in blood, Mia lay on the cold. floor, struggling to catch her breath and keep her eyes open.

Vanessa, with a wicked sneer on her heavily made-up face, looked down at Mia. "Now, you'll learn not to defy an influential client and think twice before refusing someone like me," she taunted, delivering a hard slap that made Mia's lips bleed. But Mia refused to lower her burning gaze.

"Do whatever you want, but you'll never make me work against my will," Mia declared defiantly.

Her hands were tied, as were her feet. She felt the cowardice of those powerful goons assaulting her while her limbs remained restrained.

"You arrogant bitch! How dare you talk back to me?" Vanessa slapped Mia again, sending her sprawling sideways.

"Beat her until she agrees to work for me," she instructed the henchmen, who immediately obeyed Vanessa's command.

Alessandro had learned that Vanessa had taken the designer to the dungeon. So, he headed directly there. He entered the damp, dimly lit, stinky room where traitors or members of rival gangs were tortured.

His eyes fell onto the petite form lying helplessly on the floor, and his heart skipped a beat. Restlessness took over every fiber of his body and he swiftly closed the distance. His gaze caught a glance of that beautiful face and his hand instinctively found his handgun in the holster on his chest.

He didn't think twice before firing, his steps quickening as he ran toward Mia. Within seconds, all the goons who were assaulting her lay dead on the floor.

"Alessandro, what the hell did you do?" Vanessa's voice pierced through the chaos, filled with disbelief. But her shock escalated when she heard Alessandro's cry.

"My wife!"

He wasted no time, dropping to his knees before Mia, enveloping her in his protective embrace. Before Mia could fully comprehend what was happening, Alessandro pressed his lips against hers, kissing her with an urgency that spoke of his desperate need for her, as if his life depended on it.

 

Chapter 14

Kissing Her

Mia was utterly shocked and terrified to see Alessandro before her. She couldn't believe that after six years, her nightmare sat before her. When Alessandro kissed her with longing and desperation, her confusion only grew. Wasn't he the same Alessandro who loathed her so much and never wanted to kiss her lovingly, but only wanted to induce pain from their physical intimacy?

But in that kiss, Alessandro had poured his heart and all his feelings, making Mia almost freeze as she was not accustomed to him showing affection.

Alessandro finally broke the kiss and murmured while caressing her face, his pained gaze observing her wounds, "You're alive! You're alive!"

Mia thrashed her body and tried to push him away.

"Get your hand off me, you jerk. I am not your wife!" she yelled with hatred.

She knew better than to give up and let him think she was his wife, Aria. So she decided to hold her ground and was determined to make him believe that she was Mia Peterson, and she didn't know him. Her life was better off without him. She didn't want to go back to that hell again. And when she thought of her children, her determination only strengthened. She didn't want her children to suffer like she had all her life.

"What are you saying, baby?" Alessandro whispered, taken aback by Mia's outburst.

Baby?!

Mia rolled her eyes at his endearment. He had never called her with any endearment before.

However, Alessandro never believed his heart was deceiving him. Every heartbeat of his knew this woman was his wife. His Aria.

"You are Aria. My wife!" He declared, and cupping her face, he kissed her again, harder and deeper this time.

Mia gasped at the intensity of the kiss. Her lips parted and Alessandro's tongue intruded into her mouth. She felt her traitorous body melting in his strong arms despite the pain from the earlier torture by Vanessa and her henchmen. Her devil husband still had that effect on her. But she didn't want to show any emotions, so she remained cold and tried not to respond to his kisses, although it was becoming harder not to kiss him back with each passing moment. As if God had heard her pleas, Vanessa's sharp shriek made Alessandro pull away, sending a glare in her direction.

"Alessandro, what are you doing? She is not your wife. She is that bitch interior designer. Did you forget to take your medicine again and start having hallucinations?"

Medicines?! Hallucinations?!

Mia was confused. As far as she remembered, Alessandro was in perfect health when she left six years ago, and he still looked like his fittest right now. What was Vanessa talking about? But her thoughts were interrupted by Alessandro's growl.

"Shut the fuck up, Vanessa! If you value your life, get the fuck out of my sight before I kill you for assaulting my wife."

Vanessa's jaw dropped and practically touched the floor, her eyes widening almost cartoonishly. If Mia weren't terrified by Alessandro's proximity, she would have laughed at Vanessa's hilarious expression.

However, Mia's expression mirrored Vanessa's. She couldn't understand why Alessandro was

angry at Vanessa or why he wanted her to go away. He had always wanted to marry the supermodel, and that was why he had tried to get rid of his wife. Now, he was getting the woman of his dreams, but he was holding Mia instead. Ugh! Mia mentally groaned at the realization that Alessandro Valentino was the most complicated man she had ever met. She could never read what was going on in his mind. She feared it might be a trick to lure her back to that hell and trap her, torturing her for running away from him.

She shook with the thought and quickly became more determined.

As she tried to wriggle out of Alessandro's steely embrace, she shouted, "Have you hit your head somewhere, mister? I told you, I am not your wife. I am Mia Peterson, the interior designer your fiancée kidnapped and assaulted. Now release my hands and legs before I call the police," Mia threatened, clenching her teeth in anger.

Alessandro watched her in shock.

"Don't say that, baby!" Alessandro muttered, his voice incredibly softened as he spoke to Mia in contrast to his yelling at Vanessa a moment before.

"I will throw this woman in the dungeon and make my men torture her until you forgive her. Or if you want, I will leave her there to bleed until she dies for what she did to you. But please, don't be angry with me, my love," Alessandro literally pleaded.

Mia wanted to beg him desperately to drop the act and show his true colors, but she knew better than to reveal her identity and admit that she was his wife, Aria.

"Wait a moment, sir! Why will you do that to your beloved fiancée?" she snorted mockingly. "By the way, do me a favor and untie my hands and legs, let me go from here, and I won't say a word to anyone. I will forget it ever happened," she offered and tried to break the restraint around her hands.

Alessandro's hand quickly went to the restraints on Mia's wrists, and he began untying them.

He shook his head, mumbling, "I'm sorry, baby. Let's get you out of here, and I'm taking you to a hospital. Maybe you're in shock and don't remember me. Yeah, that's right. You're in trauma." He quickly released her.

"God, what don't you understand? I'm not in shock. I'm not your wife," Mia groaned in frustration.

"Yeah, yeah, baby. Let's have a doctor check on you first," he said. Before Mia could protest, he scooped her up in his possessive arms and began walking out of that filthy place.

His assistants, who had come with him, stood behind him, watching their boss with shock and astonishment as he begged his wife to recognize him. Alessandro Valentino, the most ruthless and dangerous man in Italy, had never begged anyone in his life. Suddenly, Alessandro stopped and turned to his assistants, gesturing to Vanessa.

"Take care of her," he ordered in a dangerous tone that made Vanessa tremble with fear for her life.

"No, Alessandro, I'm sorry! I'm sorry!" Vanessa kept screaming, but Alessandro turned a deaf ear to her cries. He strode straight to his car to take his wife to the hospital and ensure she was alright.

Chapter 15

His Seduction.

Alessandro approached his car, carrying Mia in his arms. Everyone around them was stunned, gawking at him. He had never shown this kind of

and affection to anyone. before. One of his bodyguards standing near the car quickly opened the door, glancing briefly at the lady in his boss's arms.

Alessandro very carefully placed Mia on the back seat as if she were made of glass, and stepped inside the car, sitting beside her. Mia shifted to make some space between them, bút her attempt went in vain as the next moment Alessandro picked her up and made her sit on his lap.

"Put me down, you pervert," Mia shouted, and the driver and the bodyguard swallowed hard because no one had ever dared to talk to Alessandro like this.

This woman would be doomed for insulting their boss. But to their surprise, Alessandro was not angry at all; he looked amused by the furious little beauty sitting in his lap. Though his worry was evident as Mia's face bore cuts from the beating, her arms and legs bleeding, and her clothes torn, she remained the most beautiful woman to him.. "Baby, let me tend to your wounds until we reach the hospital," Alessandro said softly, retrieving the first aid kit from his car and gently cleaning her wounds with disinfectant swabs.

Mia's heart skipped a beat. She didn't know what she was feeling at that moment, but she was overwhelmed by her husband's gesture. Alessandro had never paid attention to her pain and wounds before. Hell, he had never paid attention to her in those years. So this change of heart was difficult for Mia to believe.

Throughout the ride to the hospital, Alessandro had Mia sit on his lap despite her arguments and attempts to get away. He couldn't tear his eyes away from his wife. He still couldn't believe it was really happening-that his beloved wife was safe and alive, sitting on his lap and in his arms. Unable to resist the overwhelming surge of emotions coursing through him after finding her, he lowered his head and kissed her again.

Mia punched his chest hard and pushed him away forcefully. Alessandro frowned, pulling back slightly and looking at his wife in confusion.

"Stop kissing me, you shameless prick," Mia scolded.

"I can't help it, my wife. I need to kiss you, to feel you," he whispered in her ear as he pulled her closer, and she gasped, feeling his hard and huge length pressing against her butt. "You are mine. My Aria!"

"I am not..." Mia began to protest, but her objection dissolved in his kiss as his lips fervently slammed on hers.

Keep dening and rolling your eyes and FII keep kissing you, Alesandra whispered Netween Liske

His strong, muscular arm circled her slim waist tightly as if he feared she would disappear if he loosened his grip. After a few protests, Mia's senses became overwhelmed by her husband a seductive kisses. She felt her head spinning, her body succumbing to his allure, lost in his embrace.

She only regained her senses when the car door opened, and Alessandro broke their kiss. She turned crimson with embarrassment, realizing that the bodyguard and driver had witnessed then intimate moment.

However, Alessandro remained unaffected, appearing calm and relaxed as he trailed his thumb over Mia's lips, wiping his saliva from her kiss-swollen lips before draping his suit jacket over her shoulders and helping her into it. Then, stepping out of the car, he carried her his arms and walked towards the hospital entrance.

"No, I can walk..." Mia began to protest again, but her words were muffled by her husband's warm lips as he kissed her publicly.

Her

eyes

widened at her husband's shamelessness. Who was this man? He couldn't be her heartless husband, Alessandro Valentino. Her husband had never shown this kind of PDA in the three years of their marriage. Then why now?

"Protest more if you want me to kiss you again, baby," Alessandro threatened sweetly, making Mia gape at him in shock. Freaking blackmailing jerk!

She cursed him in her mind as Alessandro walked authoritatively while carrying her in his arms as if she weighed nothing. Alessandro didn't even leave her side, despite the doctor warning him multiple times to stay

out of the treatment room.

"Is she alright?" Alessandro asked as the doctor finished treating Mia's wound and prescribed some painkillers.

"She seems fine. No internal injuries are detected. You can take her home," the doctor said

calmly, but Alessandro wasn't convinced.

He gestured for the doctor to speak with him in private. The doctor huffed before following the mafia king to a corner.

"I think you need to run a thorough check-up on my wife as she is behaving strangely. It might be because of the shock of the incident," Alessandro insisted in his authoritative tone.

"Don't worry, Mr. Valentino. Mrs. Valentino is perfectly fine mentally. I have already checked.

Wed,

But giving her some rest and keeping her away from stress will help her recover faster," the doctor advised, causing Alessandro to frown.

"You are useless. I will take my wife to the best doctor," the mafia king grumbled, scowling. making the doctor sigh in frustration.

"Let's go,

love. I'll take you to see another doctor" Alessandro said as he approached Mia.

"I'm feeling better, Mr. Valentino," she said, and Alessandro felt a sense vu. Aria used

of déjà to call him Mr. Valentino. Hearing it in her sweet voice again was like a breath of fresh air.

"Besides, I'm not your wife. I'm Mia Peterson," she pressed, crossing her arms around her chest.

The doctor chuckled under his breath upon hearing her. He thought it was Alessandro who was acting strangely, calling a woman his wife who wasn't actually his wife. So he needed consultation instead. But a death glare from Alessandro made the doctor realize his mistake, and he swiftly left the room, giving them privacy.

"Baby, if you're still upset, I understand. I'm ready to do anything, but please come home," Alessandro sighed, stepping closer and stretching his arms, taking his wife again into his embrace.

The more Mia struggled, the tighter Alessandro held her, as if to melt her into his body and never part.

Alessandro bowed his head to kiss Mia's delicate lips, perhaps five years ago, his wife dared not defy him, but now with a little aggressive, let him more obsessed.

Alessandro lifted his hand to Mia's head and continued to deepen the kiss, his other hand moving uncontrollably toward the softness of Mia's breast, which he had not tasted for so long of his dear wife.

Mia's body reacted to his touch uncontrollably.

"Fuck, you're so wet, your body is more honest than you, my dear wife..." Alessandro loosened Mia's red, swollen lips and whispered hoarsely in her ear.

"I... I'm not your wife, let me go, ah..." Mia tried to resist, but a moan escaped from her mouth.

She arched her body when his hand went down to the side of her butt. She could still feel his warm palm against her clothing.

Once she sensed his action, Mia somehow mustered up the force to shove and slap him away.

"Get away from me, asshole!" Mia said with irritation.

 

Chapter 16

"I don't know why you're mistaking me for your wife. Does she look like me? It's not my fault if I have some resemblance to your wife, but I am not her. I am Mia Peterson, and

to accept it." Mia stared at him.

you have

Alessandro looked dumbfounded at the woman before him; she looked exactly like his wife. However, Alessandro didn't believe a word she said.

He wasn't ready to accept that she wasn't his Aria but some interior designer, Mia Peterson. Maybe his eyes were deceiving him, but his heart? It couldn't be wrong in recognizing the woman he had loved his whole life.

heart had felt her heartbeat synchronized with his when he kissed her. His eyes caught the emotions in her hazel orbs when he begged her. His body, which had been cold and unable to feel anything in those six years, reacted to her touch, and he was rock hard in his pants within a second of having her in his arms. All signs were screaming only one thing: How could it be possible that she was not his wife?

"Aria, don't be so cruel to your husband," he whispered, grabbing her wrist and pulling her into his arms.

Mia wiggled and writhed, struggling hard to free herself, but her husband seemed determined to hold her for eternity.

"Please, Mr. Valentino, let me go, please. My family would be waiting for me," Mia pleaded desperately.

Family?!

It surprised Alessandro once again. His Aria was an orphan and had no one to call her family other than him. Did it mean this woman was actually not his Aria, but someone else?

His heart filled with disappointment as his eyes turned cold and menacing again.

However, Mia was only worried about her children. Everyone would have known by now that she was missing, and they would be searching for her. She was worried they would reach out to the police for help, which would be another problem. If they inquired further, it was possible her identity would be revealed.

Suddenly, Alessandro released her and took a step back. "I will let you go on one condition,"

"What is that?" Mia asked swiftly, her voice laced with desperation for her freedom.

"You personally have to decorate my new house in Paris," Alessandro proposed.

Mia took a few moments before replying. It was very risky to work for Alessandro, but she had no choice. Maybe if she kept refusing to work for him, it could make him suspicious

again. So she agreed.

"Okay, Mr. Valentino. I will design your new home in Paris," she said, nodding slowly.

"Good," Alessandro's cold reply came in a clipped tone. "Let's go then. I will drop you home."

"No need," Mia suddenly shook her head and refused firmly. She did not want him to find out about the twins. She still could not trust her devil husband. "I can manage, and thank you so much for taking me to the hospital. I will pay you back all the money you spent on my hospital bills." *No need. Consider it as compensation for my people causing trouble to you," he responded, looking intently at her.

Mia felt like she would melt under his hot gaze if she didn't leave immediately. She nodded and, turning on her heels, hurried to exit the hospital. This time, he did not attempt to stop her.

Just as Mia was about to leave the hospital, Matteo entered and was extremely shocked to see her alive. He froze in his place and stared at Mia without blinking his eyes, as if he had seen a ghost. Mia was also startled to see him there, but she didn't show it. She knew Matteo was Alessandro's best friend, but she remained indifferent as if she had never met him. Quickly, she called a cab and left for home.

"Alessandro, she.. she was Aria. She is alive, Alessandro!" Matteo gasped in disbelief as he rushed toward Alessandro and practically ran into the Mafia king, who was still looking at Mia's back as she hurried away from him.

"No!" Alessandro exhaled heavily. "She is not Aria," he declared, turning his back and heading. toward the parking lot.

Matteo promptly followed the Mafia King.

"No, she is Aria. My eyes can't be deceiving me. She is alive, Alessandro," Matteo murmured urgently.

Alessandro turned abruptly to face his friend, causing Matteo to stop on impulse to avoid colliding with the Mafia king.

"She is Mia Peterson, the interior designer, and she is not my wife," Alessandro announced sternly. His face remained expressionless as he raised his hands and put on his sunglasses to hide his stormy eyes behind them. Matteo shook his head, unable to grasp how two people could look so similar.

"What brings you here searching for me?" Alessandro asked, breaking Matteo's conflicted

thoughts.

"Ah, right," he suddenly remembered the purpose of coming here. "Maria called me and said you ordered to punish Vanessa?" Matteo asked, his confusion evident. "I was trying to reach you on the phone, but you didn't pick up. So I found out from your bodyguards that you brought a woman to the hospital and I came here to deliver your stepmother's message."

Vanessa was Alessandro's fiancée, and Matteo didn't understand why his best friend wanted. his people to take her to the dungeon and torture her. What could she have done so bad?

"What does she want?" Alessandro asked back, frustration creeping into his voice.

"She wants you to release Vanessa because if anything happens to her, what will she answer her sister?" Matteo relayed Maria's exact words to Alessandro.

"Alright. Instruct our people to release Vanessa," Alessandro commanded indifferently without glancing at his friend.

Matteo nodded, looking at the Mafia king with more confusion. But he knew better than to question Alessandro Valentino's decision. So he quickly took out his phone to instruct their people to release Vanessa and ensure her safety.

Matteo remained puzzled, his gaze fixed on Alessandro's inscrutable expression, it's hard to believe that the woman he saw at the hospital wasn't Alessandro's wife.

But the Mafia king strode confidently toward the car, paying no heed to the admiring glances from the ladies.

"I want all the information on Mia Peterson." After Alessandro sat in the car, he ordered.

 

Chapter 17

Spitting Image

sanickel

Wien Mis returned home, he found Niven in packet are, making calls and barking consers in the gibi

de Mise dropped the call mid-convertation and

rated ward Her

"Mai" Hivoice trembled with relief and mentemorion as he hugged her tightly. "Thank Cind you came back home," he mummoned, there his worried eyes took in her bandaged baby?

"What happened to you, hody? And where were you? Your phone wasn't even reachable?" Adams voice was a mix of annoyance and concern as he fired off a string of questions. Calm down. Adam First, tell me where Gia and Maximo are," Mia asked about her children. her voice steady but anxious

"They're inside, playing with their toys" Emily emerged from a room, closing the door behind her as she spoke. Mia's eyes met Emily's silently conveying her deep concern for her children

rading Mia's mind, Emily answered her unspoken question. "Don't worry, they don't know anything. For them, you're at work? Mia sighed in relief.

are you going to tell me what happened to you and who did this to you?" Adam asked again with desperation in his voice.

"I met with a small accident, and my phone was broken in it. I couldn't contact you, but some people helped me get to the hospital. After the checkup, I returned home. Don't worry, nothing major happened, and I am perfectly fine." she said, concealing the truth. She couldn't tell them about her abduction. Revealing that would mean explaining the entire story and mentioning Alessandro. She didn't want anyone to be suspicious of her wasn't willing to let anyone know about it.

past. She

"Nothing happened?!" Adam scowled. "Nothing happened, huh? You have scratches all over and marks as if someone had beaten you." He peered deep into her eyes, searching for the truth

Mia averted her gaze, not wanting Adam to uncover the hidden secret in her eyes.

I was hit badly by a car, but the impact didn't hurt me much. I'm safe, she lied, crossing her fingers in hope that Adam would believe her and stop asking questions.

"God, Mia My heart almost stopped and I couldn't breathe when I couldn't reach you. Don't do it again. Adam pleaded, taking her face in his large hands.

Mia's heart melted. No one had ever cared for her this much. She didn't have many friends, but Adam and Emily were the only people she could rely on.

"I am fine and safe, Adam. Mia whispered, taking Adam's hands from her face and holding them in assulMICE

Ma'am, you don't know what we went through when we found out you were missing. We were so worried and scared. Every phone call seemed like it was you, but..." Emily trailed off, her voice trembling with the thought of something untoward happening to Mia. "Mr. Whitmore called everyone and sent many people to search for you," she added, concern etched on her face.

Mia's heart filled with gratitude and guilt at the same time for the stress her friend went through because of her.

"Emily, we're not at work. No need to be formal, Mia said with a soft smile.

Emily nodded and then hurried to hug her tightly. "I'm so happy you're alright," she said, her voice thick with emotion.

Thank you for taking care of Gia and Maximo, Mia said, her gratitude evident.

Emily shook her head. "Ah, they're my little angels. You don't have to thank me for taking care of them.""""

Emily had been with Mia from the beginning. She had witnessed Mia's struggles and her rise to success through sheer hard work. She truly adored Mia, both as a single mother and as an entrepreneur. To Emily, Mia was the strongest woman she had ever met. "Mommy!" Gia and Maximo came out of their room after hearing the commotion.

"My babies!" Mia kneeled down as both twins ran and jumped excitedly into their mother's embrace. She winced slightly, the pain still lingering despite the painkillers.

"What happened to you, Mommy?" Gia asked, taking Mia's beautiful face in her small hands. Her cute eyes blinked with concern.

"Mommy slipped and fell on her face," Mia giggled humorously as she took her daughter's small hand in hers and kissed it gently.

"Oh, Mommy, I have told you so many times that you have to be extra cautious while walking. But you always talk on the phone and never pay attention to the road," Maximo. whined sullenly.

Mia was slightly amused and slightly scared as he had taken after his father and was as intimidating as Alessandro, even at just five years old.

"Okay, baby boy, I will be more careful next time." Mia smiled as she promised her son.

"Hmm Maximo nodded, and Mia couldn't help but shake her head. There was absolutely. no doubt about it, he was the spitting image of his father in every way.

"Alright kids, let mommy rest, and how about I make your favorite pasta?!" Emily suggested.

"Yes, you're the best, Emily," Gia grinned happily.

"And Mia, freshen up and change clothes. I'll whip up a nutritious soup for you, packed with plenty of vegetables, Emily said with the warmth and reassurance of a good friend. Mia nodded in agreement.

Till be there in two minutes," she replied as she made her way to her room.

"Take your time and go easy. If you need any help, I'm right here for you," Adam offered, a hint of mischief in his seductive voice.

"No, thanks. I can manage," Mia rolled her eyes before heading to her room.

As she went to her room and stood before the vanity table, she saw her reflection. She was still wearing Alessandro's jacket over her torn and dirty clothes. The memories of the previous events surged through her heart. She hugged the jacket as if it held the warmth she needed in this time of distress. Surprisingly, she felt a sense of relaxation. But the need to protect her heart and her kids remained strong. She would do anything to keep her cruel husband from discovering the truth she was hiding.

Chapter 18

A Man In Love

"Here is all the information about Mia Petersons you requested," Matteo said as he handed the file to Alessandro.

"You people are very quick to get all the information so soon," Alessandro remarked sarcastically.

But the truth was, Matteo was also very curious to know who Mia Peterson really was.

"I have the most efficient people, Matteo shrugged arrogantly.

He was one of the top lawyers and had the best team working under him. Working with the mafia king of western Italy and handling his businesses had made him even more risk-taking and fearless. "However, I haven't read it yet. As soon as I got it, I rushed to you," Matteo muttered as he opened one of the files and started reading intently.

"So, she started as an assistant to the famous interior designer Elise Laurent and then launched her own interior design business. Her rapid success made her a target for many people who envied her," Matteo began, giving Alessandro a brief summary. The mafia king was also holding a copy of the report in his hand, reading it attentively.

Aria had no knowledge of interior design. She had never worked in her life. When she married Alessandro, she was still studying but dropped out of school as Alessandro demanded she become a full-time housewife. As Alessandro dug deeper into the file, he found more differences between Aria and Mia, which made his heart sink with an uneasy feeling.

"It says Mia Peterson is the secret girlfriend of movie star Adam Whitmore. They have been dating for a long time and have twins together," Matteo added, murmuring as he continued. to read the information eagerly.

at

The photo attached to the report left Alessandro momentarily dumbfounded. He stared the kids in the picture; they were the same ones he had met while shopping with Vanessa at the mall.

He sighed deeply, then shifted his gaze to Adam and Mia, who were looking at each other while holding hands with the children, resembling a happy family.

"Oh my God!" Matteo gasped, his eyes wide with shock as he too looked at the photo without blinking. "This is unbelievable! Those kids bear such a strong resemblance to you. And the boy!" He paused, lifting his eyes to Alessandro, whose face remained impassive. "He looks exactly like you, as if he's your son, not Adam's, Matteo mumbled, still struck by the likeness. between the boy and the mafia king. "There's no doubt-the woman in the photo is your wife," he asserted with a firm nod.

No. Metro, she is not my wife the mafia king fused.

Come on. Alessandra. I'm not blind. Not only re, but anyone can see the similarity between you wife and this woman. Only identical twins can look so alike, Matter reasoned with an irritated sigh

Unexpectedly, Alessandro remained indifferent as he said in his cold voice, "Look at the woman in this photo She looks so happy, her smile so bright," his eyes fixed on the woman in the photo as he continued. "She can't be my wife. I've never seen Aria this happy with me. No one ever has seen her smile. Leave her and her family alone. She is a different woman, Mix Peterson, not my wife"

Alessandre then tore up the file containing Mia's information and threw it in the garbage bin. Matteo gaped at his friend in confusion. This was not the reaction he had expected from Alessandro

"You can't be serious, right?!" Matteo furrowed his brow.

"Matteo, I am always serious when I decide something." Alessandro replied in his authoritative tone.

"Then why did you ask for the report on her?" Matteo shot back, wanting an acceptable. reaction from the mafia king.

"To clear doubts," Alessandro said calmly.

Matteo shook his head. "Let me inquire more about her," he insisted, exhaling sharply.

"No need. I know she is not the woman I was looking for," Alessandro dismissed him firmly.

""But Alessandro-"

"That's it, Matteo," Alessandro interrupted in an intimidating voice. "I have more important work than chasing a woman. End this discussion," he ordered, busying himself with reading the documents on his table before signing them. Matteo sat there staring at the mafia king in disbelief.

This was not the friend Matteo had known all his life. The man he had known was obsessive and would fight for what was rightfully his. But the man sitting before Matteo right now had changed.

This man was in love-madly, deeply, and truly in love.

Matteo had seen how his friend had suffered for six long years in the agony of losing his wife. Alessandro had been completely shattered, a broken man. Now that he had found the remedy for his broken heart, the woman he had loved all his life, he was ready to let her go so easily? Without a fight?

A Man In Love

Had he aruly believed that this woman wasn't Aria? But Alessandro had never failed to judge a person by their face.

This realization made Matteo more confused. He closed the file in his hand and slumped it on the desk before him in exasperation. Matteo was so confused he felt like he didn't know. the man sitting before him at all. This couldn't be his friend Alessandro, the heartless, ruthless Mafia king.

Chapter 19

Mia immersed herself in her work. She hadn't seen Alessandro since that day, which gradually convinced her that he believed she wasn't his wife. She felt a huge sense of relief and happiness, knowing she and her children were safe from the monster. However, she had agreed to take the job of designing Alessandro's new home. So, she started working on it diligently. In addition, she had Duke Alexander's apartment to decorate as well. The week flew by, and soon it was the day Adam had to leave for the shooting of his new movie.

Adam insisted that Mia drop him off at the airport. Despite her desire to avoid the limelight and being seen with a movie star, she agreed to accompany him. He had always been there for her and her kids, even though she never asked for his help, and she felt grateful to him.

"Do you know why I wanted you to drop me off?" Adam asked as they headed to the airport, sitting in his Porsche.

"Because you like to bother me," Mia rolled her eyes dramatically, making Adam chuckle.

"No! I never like to bother you, baby," he whispered, leaning closer. "But I wanted to spend some time alone with you before I leave."

"Stop calling me that. I am not your baby," Mia scolded softly, leaning away from him and pushing him back into his seat.

"Then be my baby," Adam said suddenly, his eyes reflecting the sincerity of his words.

Mia felt a wave of nervousness wash over her as he began to speak with genuine seriousness.

"Marry me, Mia Peterson," he demanded authoritatively.

"Adam," Mia sighed, looking at him with pleading eyes. "You know I can't marry you," she

told him.

"Why can't you marry me, Mia?" Adam frowned

He was tired of being rejected by the woman he loved. Many women would kill to marry him, and here he was, proposing to this stubborn woman hundreds of times only to get rejected.

"It's.. it's complicated, and you won't understand," Mia wanted to dismiss him as she always did.

"No, I don't understand it, but please let me understand your complicated situation," he emphasized the last two words in frustration.

"Is there someone else?" Adam's heart stopped ather Mia hesitated for a brief second. She had loved Alessandro, but now she didn't have any feelings for him since he had tried to kill her and their babies. Practically, she was still married to him, but it wasn't legal with her new identity and new life. Nevertheless, she wasn't ready for any kind of relationship or commitment after going through hell in her previous marriage.

But Adam wasn't anything like Alessandro; he was sweet and caring, and Mia's heart warmed when he never hid his affection for her and her kids. Other women had quickly accepted his proposal and reciprocated his love. But Mia wasn't any other woman. Her heart had turned to stone long ago, and her feelings had died years before. Now she only lived for her children, determined to give them the good life they deserved.

"No, that's not the reason, Adam, but." she tried to reason with him, but Adam didn't let her complete.

"If you don't have anyone in your life, you should marry me, Mia. I am giving you time until my next visit because I won't hear a 'no' next time when I come with a ring to put on your finger, he declared shamelessly, and Mia's jaw dropped in disbelief.

Before she could respond, the car stopped as they arrived at the airport, and Adam Whitmore's bodyguard opened the door for him.

Adam stepped out of the car before Mia, who wore a scarf to cover her face, avoiding the paparazzi who followed Adam like bees to honey.

"See you soon, Mia, Adam said as he hugged her, whispering in her ear, "This time will be the toughest, being apart from you, baby. I can't wait to return to you and make you mine forever."

Mia swallowed hard at his unwavering demand. She struggled to find the right words to firmly decline him. Only a foolish woman could break Adam Whitmore's heart. But she knew she had to protect him from the danger lurking in her life, from her tragic past. She felt like the unluckiest woman alive, fearing she could ruin his life with her dark history, she thought to herself.

"Adam, I don't..." she began to explain, but he placed a finger on her lips, silencing her.

"Shh... I know you don't love me. But trust me, my love is enough for us both," he assured with a confident smile. "And believe me, one day, I will make you fall in love with me," he added, winking, which made Mia roll her eyes at his overconfidence.

"Go now, or you will miss the flight," Mia gently pushed him towards the airport entrance, and Adam sighed.

"I wish I could miss this flight and stay here with you forever," he lamented, motioning to his bodyguards to follow him as they took his bags.

Mia waved goodbye to him before turning and sliding into the Porsche Adam had left for her to drop her at her office. Lost in her thoughts about work, she stared out the window car navigated through the crowded traffic. Unbeknownst to her, another car moved alongside hers, as someone watched her from afar, keeping a vigilant eye on her and observing her every move daily.

 

Chapter 20

First Time

Alessandro's face was gloomy and cold as he watched Mia drop Adam Whitmore at the aport. They hugged before Adam left, and Miaggot into the car and headed to her office.

Dangerous emotions swirled in Alessandro's heart as he watched them together. He instructed his driver to follow her car. He watched her go to her office before heading to his own office to work. After a few hours and attending two meetings, he felt unwell and left for home, instructing his assistant to reschedule his meetings for tomorrow.

I was expecting you home earlier, Alessandro, Matteo's sarcastic tone greeted him as Alessandro entered the apartment where he was staying in Paris while his mansion was being prepared. Alessandro scowled at him.

"What are you doing here, Matteo? Don't you have work?" Alessandro grumbled.

Matteo remained silent for a long minute, glancing at his friend who looked weak and haggard from not eating properly for days. Alessandro had almost lost his appetite and sleep, the dark circles under his blue eyes proof of his struggles. He had lost a lot of weight and no longer cared about his appearance, his overgrown stubble and hair a testament to his neglect. Who would believe this was the dangerous and cruel mafia king feared by everyone? This time, he looked like a man in desperate need of help.

And Matteo was not going to leave him alone when he knew his friend needed him. He had seen Alessandro go through this stage six years ago, and it had taken a long time for him to recover from the shock. But this time was different, and Matteo couldn't let the mafia king torture himself like this again. He decided to stay, delegating all his important work to his assistant, just to be with his best friend.

"I was going to ask you the same question, Alessandro," Matteo shot back. "I thought you had work here for only two days. Now it's been more than a week and you're still here."

"My work requires me to stay longer," Alessandro replied indifferently as he headed to his room, with Matteo following closely behind.

"Come on, Alessandro. Look at yourself. What happened to the ruthless mafia king? You look like shit," Matteo said, wincing as Alessandro glared at him murderously through the mirror while taking off his tie.

"Look, I'm worried about you. You haven't eaten anything in a week, and you haven't even taken a bath," Matteo sighed, holding up his hands in surrender before the mafia king could pull out his gun and shoot him dead. "How long are you going to keep going like this, huh?" he asked, his tone laced with frustration.

"I am fine, Matteo. Leave me alone. I don't need anyone," Alessandro growled as he went to his walk-in closet to change into comfortable sweatpants and a shirt.

When he came out, he went downstairs, leaving the food on the dining table untouched,

without even glancing at it. He headed straight to the bar and poured himself a drink. Matteo helplessly watched his friend destroy his life as if punishing himself for something. His heart. ached for the mafia king. Alessandro had done many bad things, but he had also suffered immensely, perhaps enough to be forgiven for his sins.

The thought made Matteo's stomach churn with fear. If Alessandro had truly lost the will to live, then no one could save him from himself.

With determination bubbling in his head, Matteo strode toward his friend with anger and snatched the glass of scotch from his hands. "I won't let you do this to yourself, even if you kill me," he announced firmly.

"What's your fucking problem?" Alessandro snarled, making Matteo tremble slightly, but he held his ground.

"You. You are my problem, and I can't see you like this," Matteo told him, his eyes filled with concern and emotion.

Alessandro didn't have anyone other than Matteo who truly cared about him. Everyone else. was there for his wealth or out of fear.

"Then fucking go away," Alessandro groaned as he poured himself another glass and gulped it down in one go.

Matteo knew his efforts were futile, but he couldn't accept defeat. However, making Alessandro do something was an impossible task. Feeling frustrated, Matteo slammed the glass on the bar counter and stormed out of the apartment.

Alessandro let out a heavy breath as he poured himself another drink, planning to drink until he passed out because he couldn't sleep without it. But even after consuming many drinks, which he lost count of, he couldn't forget about the reality and the pain and emptiness in his heart. He quickly grabbed his jacket, throwing it over his shoulder, and instructed his driver. to bring the car around as he descended to the parking lot of his apartment building.

After a while, he found himself standing before Mia Peterson's apartment building, staring hopelessly at her window. Her room was dark, and it seemed she would be asleep at this late hour of the night.

Suddenly, Mia's room illuminated as if the heavens had heard Alessandro's unspoken prayer.

Mia was overworked and was trying to sleep, but something was bothering her, making her heart restless. On impulse, she went to open her window to get some fresh air and stared at the dark sky, adorned with stars and the moon.

Alessandro watched only her as she sat on the window ledge, making invisible designs in the air and wiping them away with a huff. He unconsciously smiled at her cute actions. His dull eyes brightened, never leaving her for even a moment, as his lips curled up into a smile so alluring it was almost blinding. The bodyguards and driver were stunned, unable to believe

their eyes as their formidable boss smiled. No one had ever seen him smile before.

Then, they looked at the woman whom Alessandro was watching with eyes full of love and longing. Curiosity grew about her because this woman couldn't be ordinary; she was someone very special, who had made an impossible act possible for the first time in history.